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Wednesday, 29 October 2014

The Cambridges Visit Scotland, A Summer Outing with Prince George & More

Following a return to engagements for the Duchess of Cambridge last week, it's been a particularly quiet time on the royal front. Where are the Cambridges and how is Kate feeling? Just a couple of days ago there were several sightings of William, Kate and George on a plane from Heathrow to Aberdeen. Excited passengers quickly shared the news on social media.

Shannon Grace Dyer Twitter Feed

In all likelihood it would appear the trio are spending a relaxing week at Balmoral, The Queen's Scottish retreat. The Cambridges usually visit in September, thus having the opportunity to spend time with Her Majesty, the Duke of Edinburgh, Charles and Camilla, however, due to Kate's illness it was off the cards this year. William did spend a weekend there hunting, but now Kate is on the mend they obviously decided it would be a perfect time to visit.

The couple may be taking advantage of the inactivity on the estate, as other senior royals are taking on a heavy schedule of duties and tours at this time of the year. It's the perfect location to indulge in long country walks and the privacy it affords is perfect for boisterous George to explore just as his father did as a child.

Wikipedia

The trip suggests Kate is continuing to feel better in her second trimester and enjoying a family break. Scotland is simply beautiful in the autumn, and it's the ideal time to wrap up in coats, scarves and comfy boots and enjoy the great outdoors and cosy evenings by the fire.

Balmoral Facebook Page

Regarding engagements, we'll continue to hear about them at very short notice for the time being. I don't anticipate there will be very many though, most likely two or three over a very short period every few weeks or so. November should prove relatively busy with appearances including Remembrance Sunday which takes place on 9 November this year.

We'll let you know immediately if any engagements are announced.

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Many of you may recall there were sightings of Kate and George enjoying a day out at Bucklebury Farm Park over the summer. Now, over four months later, a photo and information on the day has emerged.

Elou71 Twitter Feed

The news comes courtesy of an article in The Telegraph which includes a funny story about a family who saw the royals at the popular park. En route to the park, Adam De Marco, his partner Claire and their daughter Mia broke down due to a flat tyre and quickly found themselves surrounded by officers. They soon realised they were outside the Middletons' Bucklebury home and once officers realised they were not a threat, put their guns away and helped to repair the tyre.

Unfortunately it was too late for the family to visit but they returned the next day and saw Kate, George and Carole Middleton there:

'We saw Kate, her mum and Prince George at the farm shop, where you can buy fresh meat and other food. When they got into their Range Rover to drive off, we took some photos - and there was no sign of the protection squad.'

Set in a stunning 74-acre site, Bucklebury Farm Park offers a host of attractions including swings, go-carts, ponds, play areas and plenty of farm animals.

Bucklebury Farm Park

If George's reaction to meeting a bilby in Sydney is any indication, we believe he thoroughly enjoyed meeting the animals and exploring the farm.

Friendly animals are all around the park - from the cute and cuddly to rare breeds with some very ancient ancestry; did you know wild boar can be seen roaming rural Berkshire? Llamas, donkeys, Shetland ponies, pigs, cows and goats all reside in the park.

Bucklebury Farm Park

After a long day of exploration, visitors can relax and enjoy home-baked treats and warm tea and coffee at Woody's Café. All food is freshly prepared to order from locally sourced ingredients.

Woody's Café

Kate looked casual in a grey sweater, her signature J Brand skinny jeans and Mint Velvet plimsolls. On closer inspection we can see Kate's protection officer Emma Probert accompanied the royals on their day out.

No doubt, the Cambridges will return to the farm in the future with the latest addition to the family.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War the moat has gradually been transformed into a red sea thanks to a beautiful design by ceramic artist Paul Cummins and stage designer Tom Piper. Upon completion next month, it will feature 888,246 ceramic poppies each representing a colonial military fatality during the war.

Historic Royal Palaces Twitter Feed

We've had considerable interest from readers requesting a look at the project's progress. Below we see an aerial shot taken yesterday.

Historic Royal Palaces Twitter Feed

The moving project has been visited by many wishing to pay their respects.

Historic Royal Palaces

10% from each poppy, plus all net proceeds, will be shared equally amongst six service charities: Confederation of Service Charities, Combat Stress, Coming Home, Help for Heroes, Royal British Legion and SSAFA (formerly the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association). They will be distributed once the exhibition closes in November. Please click here for more information.

Historic Royal Palaces

It is an outstanding effort, visually moving and a touching way to remember.

Thank you so much for your posts Charlotte! I can't tell you how much I enjoy them. Yours is the post that I check most frequently because they are always so thorough, pertinent, balanced and respectful of the duchess and her position. My husband and I saw the poppy exhibition on a trip from the U.S. in early October mainly due to your coverage. Thank you again for all your efforts!

I hope you and your husband had a fabulous time in London. The poppy exhibition is beautiful, it was such a creative, appropriate tribute and all the more fitting to hear proceeds will go to military charities.

Robin....I was just there in October, too. The installation is breathtaking and very moving. What a beautiful memorial to all of the fallen soldiers. On our trip to London, Paris, Cologne and Bruges, London was my favorite city. The food was wonderful, the city beautiful and the people very warm. I'll definitely be back to explore more of this amazing country!

Do you have any photos you could post from the exhibition Charlotte?It looks so beautiful ....Looking forward to myPoppies arriving - hopefully before Christmas :-) although I think it's going to be a task to ship nearly 900k poppies around the world!Simone

Hopefully they will continue in the creation of a few more poppies for purchase as they have currently sold out of all poppies placed/purposed for the moat. Wonderful to have such a significant peice of memory.

Oh lovely, the whole post is lovely! I might even post this one to my FB friends who some of which will roll their eyes but, really I think I will send it.Hope the Cambridge's enjoy their trip! I can guarantee George will be in heaven running around in the woods! The picture of Windsor castle from the air is stunning , heartbreaking and so dynamic!

I just took a closer look, it seems to me she has her sunglasses pushed up on her head. And her hair tied back in that loose twist look I have seen before, to keep her hair out of her face (or more likely, away from grabbing fingers lol).

Ha ha ha. I didn't even know C & C were on tour. Where are they? I guess I should google and find out ;-) but maybe not. Thank you Charlotte, for your continuing coverage of all things D & D Cambridge! You do a great job.

Thank you royalfan and Simone G! Your news tidbits made me laugh. I have now googled C & C's tour and looked at the coverage, so perhaps if their news-clipping service sees that Charlotte's blog actually creates traffic FOR C & C, things may be more smooth for all concerned. I do have a soft spot for my memories of seeing Charles in 1982 at the Covent Garden Opera House. He looked right into my camera, and I was a very happy college student when the film was developed and the pictures printed.

It's fun to see a pic from the Farm Park since I visited there in the summer. We were supposed to see the animals but since it was a very hot day and we were running late on our schedule we decided only to enjoy a lunch in the cafe which was very nice and cosy. The shop that Kate visited seemed to stock some good quality items too.

Kate must be taking George to Farm Park often since it's literally only few hundred meters from the manor. Down the hill and if I remember correctly the first crossroads to the left is all it takes. :)

Lovely post Charlotte. Thank you so much for the picture of the poppies!! Charles, Camilla - who?? :o) If it doesn't concern Kate, William or Harry.... I LOVE your blog. You always throw in additional tidbits of information, history, etc. that really make it my number one place to go for Kate news. Keep up the good work!!

Bucklebury Farm Park very much reminds me of a similar park near the home of my grandparents, which we visited frequently on our way to see gramps and granny. Fantastic for young children, but once you hit the age of 10, and you find yourself still visiting, you begin to suspect that your parents have not yet quite grown up. :))

Taking George to such a place is entirely in keeping with my own childhood and I am sure that George is enjoying every moment--he strikes me as the curious sort.

I second the posters above who seem to think, as do I, that at least part of the reason--if we accept the account of tweeters that W/K/G are in Scotland-- is to remove them from the reach of the paps, lest a photo of any of the three derail the current tour of Charles and Camilla. It wouldn't take much to upstage those two, after all.

Being a nosy bird, I would love to know how the logistics of staying at the various properties work. Who keeps the calendar of who is using what properties when and how do you make your wishes known that you will be using any given property? Are there ever any conflicts of family members wishing to use the properties and do some members get priority - does rank count? If anyone has ever read about how that all is conducted - do point me in the right direction.

Hey Jenn, you asked about Harry books somewhere. There's supposed to be a new one out by Penny Junor, who has always been pretty tight with Prince Charles. I haven't read it yet, but I'm thinking I might get it. Happy to give you my review when I do!

I cannot even tell you how much I love the Game of Thrones and Game of Thrones puns!! It's the little things I wonder about - how to you get the keys? Who is the Key Master? Is there one giant ring of keys? Does he go from royal household to royal household handing out and collecting keys? Are there advance teams that have to go turn on the heating or AC, shovel the snow and stock the fridge? Is this what property caretakers do? Have you got to remember that Beatrice likes Diet Dr. Pepper and there better damn well be some in the house when she gets there? So many questions...

Thanks Bluhare! Yes, would love a review if you decide to get it! I read one book about him (can't remeber which one), and wasn't impressed at all with the writing and tone of it, but the pictures were a different matter ;).

Moxie, your questions mirrored my own so much, I had to smile. I have wondered the same thing for years! They must really have everything down like clockwork (maybe eleves do it?), otherwise it might have leaked out to the press by now, you would think. I'm going to do some research and see if I can't find out if someone has written a book about it. Maybe we will get lucky and someone has!

Moxie - You might want to peruse "The Housekeeper's Diary" by Wendy Berry who was Charles' housekeeper at High Grove. It gives some insight about the running of a royal household albeit a relatively small one.

As for Balmoral, IIRC that William has his own "cottage" there. If that's true, here's my educated guess* about preparation for Wm's arrival.

One of Wm's admin staff notifies the person at Balmoral who oversees housekeeping for the "cottages" with details of his stay including names of everyone staying with him in his cottage; arrival and departure time/day for everyone in his party; special needs/requests of each person i.e. dietary/favorite alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages etc. (for stocking the kitchen in Wm's cottage). Wm's admin relays additional details to Balmoral depending on whether or not QEII will be there during his stay and if she has invited the Cambridges to specific meals and/or activities.

A documentary for QEII's 50th was behind-the-scenes of her official life. Her official guests receive glorious treatment! HM's staff contacted overnight visitors ahead of time to inquire about a preference for a certain brand of toilet paper. When visitor arrived, housekeeping unpacked and hung all the person's clothing, writing down everything as they unpacked it and noting each item's location in the luggage. Housekeeping then re-packed the visitor's luggage, placing everything back in the suitcase in it's original location plus everything was wrapped in white tissue paper for added protection.

*My 'educated guess' credentials consist of 3 years working as an accountant at a very wealthy family's private financial management company. A lot of wealthy people have their own private financial management companies but no one has ever heard of them because they use obscure and/or or generic names to register the business. Anyway, said family set up their company years ago to manage the finances, investment portfolios, trust funds and household accounting (we did payroll and paid all the household bills for the family matriarch's two estates) for the core family and extended family members. When I worked there we had about 100 "clients". The 90 year old family matriarch split her time between her 40,000 square foot home in Minnesota and her ocean-front estate in Palm Beach Florida.

Jenn, this is the book I was thinking about as it's new and written by Penny Junor who's a big fan of Charles, so it would probably be quite favorable to Harry, but the reviews are not exactly making my finger itch to turn on one click ordering. The cover photo, however, . . . . . . .

Hmmmm, just got it again. Is that going to happen every time? Kind of annoying. I usually can't make out the first set of words, and have to push for a different set. Let's see if it happens again......

I'm starting to enjoy it. Kate, I get both words and numbers, although lately it's been words. What is fun is some of the words can be quite entertaining . . . and a couple have been a little off color! (Misspelt off color, not real off color if you know what I mean.) I'm making a game out of it now. The best one was when I had to type Henry when I was rhapsodizing about Harry.

Well Well Well.... bluhare got herself a bright orange box with a strange 8 in it... isn't she fancy. Are you writing Fantasy Harry Fiction now? Or are you going the critical route and posting his pictures and giving him marks? A bluhare Harry blog is something I'd read.

LOL bluhare, you actually had me laughing out loud, I almost peed myself! Yes, I do notice your skinnier orange self now, very flattering! I do have a google account, but have no idea how to set that up using my phone (computer is on the fritz). Guess I will have to check it out.

Also, I agree with Moxie, and you also. I would read "Bluhares Harry Blog" in a hearbeat. And both of you witty ladies doing one together would be through the roof funny!

Jenn, don't set up an account! If you'll note I've taken my snappy new outfit off and am back to posting naked. I wasn't having a single posting problem until I set up that bloody account and I'd say about half my posts disappeared. And only the best ones that would have won me internet Pulitzers. It just isn't fair.

Amd as far as my blog with Moxie, I'm working on a name. BluMoxxed, although I can't quite figure it out. Play on word with flummoxed because you know that's how we'd be half the time!

The poppies are actually all sold. I've been watching for a while now, hoping more would come available. I became a bit excited when I read they were available, but alas, it isn't so! :(By the way, I can't tell you how much I love your blog. I'm here multiple times a week to get my updates. Thank you!

As someone who lives in the states and will more than likely never be able to visit London, can someone answer this for me? I see the huge walls that are a fortress around the Tower of London (which it needed as a prison!). Does Buckingham Palace have similar walls surrounding the property? What kind of protection do they have from intruders?

I am no expert by any means, but from the visits I made as a tourist and as a student of English history, I believe the difference is in the original purpose for which each was built. The Tower of London was originally a fortress, built by William the Conqueror soon after his 1066 successful invasion. By contrast, Buckingham Palace was acquired by King George III in 1761 as a home for his wife. He bought it from the Duke of Buckingham who had had it built for himself as a home.

So the Tower would naturally have defensive walls, while the palace would not, but the palace has a fence to restrict access to it.

Thank you Marci and Royalfan so much for the information! I I really enjoyed looking at the 40 facts about BP site. I learned a lot, and I will never complain about cleaning windows again after hearing how many they have at BP. And thank you Charlotte, for providing a way for so many people around the world to appreciate the beautiful scenery and history of Great Britain, Scotland, Wales, Malta and so many other places, as well as share in the exciting life of the Duchess of Cambridge.

I've been playing "home alone"...lol...and I just found this link. It offers some AMAZING panoramic views of different locations in London. (You have to use the drop-down option or arrows at the bottom.)

Mary, official name of the Tower is Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress. It was a prison, but also a Royal residence, armoury, treasury, housed the Crown Jewels, home to the Royal Mint at one time, etc, etc., so as Marci said, the defensive walls were necessary. If you have a chance to read up on history of the Tower, it is fascinating. I do hope you have the opportunity to visit London and the Tower one day. It is amazing!

Speaking of BP and protection from intruders, I have always wondered how in the world Michael Fagan scaled the brick wall and got over the spikes and bared wire surrounding BP. Crazy. Security has obviously changed over the past 30 years since then and I think one would be nuts to attempt it today, but holy cow how did he get over it? If you've seen it in person, I think you would agree that one would have to be crazy to attempt it. Mary, you can google pics of BP to see the gate and brick wall that surround it. You can also find some great aerial views of Buckingham Palace on You Tube to get a visual picture of how it's protected. :)

If William and Kate overshadowing Charles and Camilla is such a concern, then logically they should be out of sight until Charles and Camilla pass away. And as Harry gets more press than Charles and Cam, the same should be expected of him. (But of course that's ridiculous).

I don't think it is a surprise that a holiday is in order for the Cambridges, and I see no reason it has anything to do with anyone else.

It's difficult to compare W&K with Harry (as a single young man). When Charles and Diana got married, Andrew was a young, handsome and "fun" prince. But as appealing as he was, as a "solo act" he could never compete with the star power of C&D.

Stephanie, I don't think they were instructed to go on holiday. It's not unheard of for members of the royal family to spend time at Balmoral, Sandringham, etc., with or without the Queen. Does anyone even know if/when Sophie and Edward go to Balmoral, for example? I'm thinking no... :) Whatever we call it, W&K's absence (from headlines) has a practical purpose at this time.

But bluhare, Andrew's the most handsome of the bunch....or so we've heard from Sarah....over and over and over again. :)

Stephanie, I agree with you, except I wouldn't call it a holiday... it is their life. They move from household to household and occasionally make public appearances. I'm not being snarky, just observant. In all of August, September, and October - Kate did 3 days of public appearances - which put her in London on those days. There were sightings of her in Bucklebury, Norfolk, and Scotland - these are not holidays from her busy work life. This is her lifestyle. It's a rather nice one.

bluhare, I do agree with you about Harry's appeal. But I still maintain that a single man, no matter how good looking and charismatic, does not have the same impact on headlines as one with an attractive lady in his life.

Oh, Bluhare, I just had to write this (regardless of the robot test I will endure when I'm done) to agree with you whole heartedly about P Harry and JFK Jr! Now, on to the test ( I wonder what words I will get this time...last time it was "entive 1892", weird). ;) tata ladies

bluhare, I'm glad you enjoyed that. :) I absolutely agree with you about JFK Jr. He was a brilliant example of an exception to the rule. But I noticed how you snuck Harry into your last response to me...lol.

Hmmm... Harry alone vs. W&K in grabbing headlines away from C&C....I'm not so sure he represents the same threat. But feel free to !@#$%&*@!$#&% right back at me. :)))

Maryland Moxie, I agree with your assessment that the Scotland trip is not really a holiday--just Kate's way of life now as a royal. I disagree with you that it would be a nice lifestyle. I guess some would like it. I hope Kate does! I would hate moving around from place to place on a regular basis. I love a good trip, but then I'm so happy to snuggle back in to my regular and much-loved surroundings, familiar routines, good friends. I love having a sense of place--of HOME--in my life! Maybe that's why Kate seems to gravitate toward Bucklebury!

Hi Lynne,I agree it is not for everyone. The moving about has a lot to do with the weather/seasons and country pursuits - hiking, hunting, fishing, also fall folliage, snow, spring time blooms, and summer waters etc. I think Kate is accustomed to it from her days of dating William and what is different now is she is actually the "woman of the house" at some of the properties and things are set up to their preferences. This actually mimics Elizabeth's and Phillip's lifestyle, except they aren't at the "Big Houses". I would thrive in such a lifestyle - I appreciate the changing seasons and wildlife habitats and like a nice walk outside, to appreciate all the more a warm fire and cozy furniture. I would be okay with someone else making my dinner and doing the housekeeping as well. I'm crazy like that. :-)

So happy the Duchess is on the mend; seems she is getting to finally do the things she missed doing while ill, as she was having to stay inside all the time which, she alluded to during her first engagement since the announcement of her pregnancy.

Charlotte: Thank you very much for this post especially the piece on the ceramic poppies at the Tower. The overhead shot of the Tower showing the blanket of poppies surrounding it is particularly moving! It puts the enormity of the tribute into perspective.

yes its nice too duchess is finaly ding what she doing what she does want to do im happy that she do what she does to when she has severe morning sickness so many american magazine on the cover pw was worried on her second pregnancy and the queen is forcing her to resume engagement i think this rubbish and lock content prince harry engagement was a boast to uk

Well Charlote you just answered my question so again I will not be posting again. I don't I have not been regular but when I do write a comment you elect not to post it. Not sure why because they are not atacking anyone.

Hi Charlotte I have written several comments and you have not posted them. Then I asked you why and you did not answer that post either. So I just figured you just were not posting anything I wrote for what ever reason. So that is what I meant from my comment.

Could it be that you have missed the "non-robot" verification. After you've written a post and clicked publish it shows up that you have to fill in a word or number to verify that you're not a robot. If you don't do that you will not have sent the post. I really doubt Charlotte does the things you are insinuating. Maybe give her the benefit of the doubt?

Sorry Pauline, but I also recognise your name from your other posts, so I think you going off on Charlotte is way out of line and uncalled for. She does a tremendous job with this post, and I imagine she is a very very busy woman. I have written a couple of emails to her myself Pauline, with no reply, but I certainly didn't feel offended, or feel the need to share it, as you did. I want to point out one thing Pauline....if Charlotte was supposedly "targeting" your posts, then how did the ones you just posted get through? Food for thought, imo.

Recently my posts have not been showing up either... if you read the comments she states she has realized there were issues, she's trying to work it out and she was sorry if anyone's post did not go through. I am a typically sensitive person and do not take it personally that my posts weren't published. I would encourage you to step back ans look at this in a different perspective. It is a blog, not something that we should care so much about to get our feelings hurt, there is more to life than being online all day and night waiting to see if your post went through.

For what it's worth, I haven't had any issues posting with my blogger account. Nothing has changed and I don't believe that any of my posts have been lost in cyberspace.

It's easy to set up and account, you can protect your privacy, and in the case of "Anon" posts, it would make it easier to carry a conversation. Just an idea............... :)

And Jenn from NC, you took the words right out of my mouth. I would just add that if I threatened to never post again (something I would not share online because it isn't about *me*), I would back it up.

Pauline, how many times have you threatened to quit posting over some perceived slight or because the blog's comments didn't line up perfectly with your extremely rigid opinions about the Cambridges? Charlotte works extremely hard on this blog, don't make her deal with your childish antics on top of everything she already does.

Actually, royalfan, I did try to set up a blogger profile this morning. I've got a google account, and told it I want to do the blogger profile instead, got an error message, and as usual when I went to the help area all I got was there was a problem with some jimmy jammy and I should do something to my sockets or something. I did nothing, and still don't have an account.

Pauline, I, too, have had several posts that were evidently lost in cyberspace. The one I regret most is one that I considered quite eloquent on the problem of addiction in our society. I know Charlotte and my fellow bloggers would have loved it. I can't believe that you have taken the absence of your posts with such personal paranoia. Good grief! This is supposed to be educational, informative, and FUN!

A tip from a person that have had cyberspace eating her posts for yeaaaars. If I think I have a extra good post on my hands I copy-paste it onto a document. If after a while the post doesn't seem to have gotten through I can just repost it without the agony of writing it again. I'm very interested in reading your thoughts on addiction if you feel like writing it again.

I hope you see this post.... Thank you. Yes, I did see your reply in the other post and I responded, but you have to click on the "load more" option towards the bottom in order to see them. :)

I found the blog and I like the variety of royals that it covers. And I Googled Mary's designer's name and came across some blogs with unkind remarks about Mary. That was the first time I read anything negative about her. Apparently, some people think she devotes *too* much time to her clothes. Lol. I guess that means there's something to be said for doing it your way, eh?

Has anyone else seen the story about how the Queen's bullying Kate into working even though Kate's vomiting all day and night? Even I thought it was bunk. The queen's more passive aggressive, not the bullying type. :)

Is this the Queen that just took a two month break? One of these days I'm going to figure out how much time Elizabeth puts in. Maybe when she takes her January/February Sandringham break I will analyze her 2014 schedule. Perhaps one day Kate will rise to a schedule equal to that of Elizabeth.

Yes Bluhare, I saw it plastered across one of those "magazines" while standing in line at grocery store yesterday. I just sadly shook my head. Knew it was rubbish the minute I saw it.

Oh, I am keeping my patience with the "robot test" also, lol. It's just funny, the words/numbers I get sometimes are so weird :).

P.S.....I have to say it again Bluhare, I so agree with you about Harry. Have you read any of the books written on his life and style? I can't remember the authors @ the moment ( will have to look it up), but I am a huge reader, and was curious if they are well written and worth the read, or to use your term, "full of bunk". Tc, Jenn

bluhare, it's quite possible that you are correct and the Queen would like Kate out and about more; I think HM has a better appreciation for the bigger picture after everything that transpired during the 80's and 90's. But Queen or not, I don't believe she is calling all the shots. The Cambridge's "participation" has Charles' finger prints all over it and HM has a reputation for not interfering in her children's lives.

Moxie, I'll take you on regarding the amount of work the queen and her husband do vs. William and Kate. In 2013, the Queen did 344 engagements in the UK, and the Duke of Edinburgh 180. That's 524 for a couple in their late 80's and early 90's. William did 62 engagements, and Kate did 44, for a whopping total of 106 in the UK last year, The Duke of Edinburgh, age 92 whose health was not perfect last year, did more than these two combined. Yes, I know Kate was pregnant, but she wasn't ill in 2013. The Duke actually was. The Times does a year end recap, and these numbers come from their 2013 counts. I'd say the Queen earns her two months' off, even though 2014 numbers aren't in yet. I think HM and the DOE will trounce these two again, even with their whopping Australia/NZ schedule.

I can also provide an article that specifically states Kate declined an appointment at the Art Room on October 28, citing her illness, yet was well enough to fly to Scotland on the 26th.

Choose your weapons and second Moxie. I will see you on the field at dawn! (that pathetic 'thwack" you just heard was me throwing down my gauntlet.)

HM and PP's sense of duty cannot be denied and I have tremendous respect for them. But do you think they are as active as they are because the younger generation won't step up and they have no choice? It almost sounds as if you are suggesting that. IMO, if HM and PP wanted to do a lot less, they would, and all junior troops would be given their marching orders. I think they (HM & PP) do as much as they do because of a strong sense of duty and viewing their roles, the Queen especially, as a life long commitment from which one does not retire.

Regarding Kate declining an engagement at the Art Room... Decline suggests she never agreed to do it in the first place which is not the same as canceling because something better came along.

Actually, royalfan, I didn't mean to imply anything about the numbers except the vast chasm between HM and WK. To get to Moxie's point about the Queen taking two months off. No more, no less, believe it or not. Kate's lack of attention to one of her patronages, on the other hand . . . . .

Royalfan, PP has mentioned in the last couple years about becoming less active in old age. However, we have not been able to see him do this.

I believe Wills and Kate work as much, for the RF or otherwise, as they wish. A close detailed at their work history the last ten years makes it clear to me. I do not believe they are being suppressed by Charles or that their wings are being clipped.

Other members of the RF doing things has not hindered Will or Kate from taking attention away in the past by going out in public and getting photographed - though it is interesting that in this instance, it was a matter of actual work.

I hope I didn't respond to you already, royalfan. I'm having issues. One of which is my snappy new outfit. Now I'm all dressed up in an official blogger account!

But I agree Kate probably never intended to go. But why give illness as an excuse? It doesn't look good when she flew commercial to Scotland two days before. And why wasn't this one announced amid the flurry of engagements/cancelled engagements a few weeks ago? Perhaps that they knew she was really going to Scotland and it had nothing to do with any illness? It's not that she didn't go. It's using an illness that's got her a lot of sympathy as an excuse when she appeared in public right before it looking quite healthy and then flew commercial to Scotland. It looks bad.

Bluhare - the royal family started talking about "work" in terms of engagements, rather than days to ramp up all the numbers. Given that they spend at the most an hour to an hour and a half on their day engagements - they can sometimes get 4 or 5 public appearances in one day. (Evening events are usually longer, especially if they include dinner). They spend very little time with more people and cram it all in a few days -- which allows them plenty of leisure time. Elizabeth actually takes at least 4 months off and works 3or4 days a week? She moves from Buckingham to Windsor for a four day weekend. She keeps up with her signature paperwork, because that is her "power" and "privilege" to know everything that is happening in government. The reality is if she didn't sign everything - the government would still function. The point I was making is that Elizabeth is "hard working" for a royal, but not for the average person - and maybe one day Kate will work about half the time of an average person, like Elizabeth does. What a goal to aspire to! I will try to work out the days, and not the number of appearances, so it is better understood how much time even Elizabeth puts into attending to the public. And we have to remember the work is 98% polite conversation and so long as you've still got most of your marbles, you can pull it off no matter your age.

I find the age argument interesting... in the concept of monarchy - does age matter? In theory, the Queen is the most powerful/responsible individual in the land and her position is lifetime and non-negotiable. Shouldn't whoever is playing the role of Monarch be the focus? We don't ever worry about what our leaders kids and grandkids are doing - unless it is something illegal. (Of course, these folks don't inherit their parents roles.) I'm challenging the idea that the Queen needs to rely on her granddaughter-in-law to help her with her monarchy. That is a bit insulting to Elizabeth - she was carrying on just fine before Kate married into the family. And Kate wasn't picked by Elizabeth as a helpmate - Kate was picked by William to help him. Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Phillip do as many engagements as they want to - they aren't being forced or coerced into them.

So yes - E&P do much more then W&K - because they are the Monarch and her spouse and W&K are merely the monarch's grandchildren. She's the Head of State for the UK and the Commonwealth - she has things to do on behalf of the country. How many days is that exactly? Unknown - data is presented in engagements rather then days or hours to prevent comparison to the average worker. I'm pretty sure its not going to work out to an 8 hour/5 day/46 week year. I'm pretty sure its going to go from... UK Worker/Elizabeth/Kate when all is said and done. And then you can put all other royal born in front of Kate too. She's not outworking Charles, Anne, Edward, Andrew, William or Harry. Nor is she outworking the spouses Camilla and Sophie.

Here is something interesting to start watching - look at the pictures of Kate at evening events and notice the age of folks she is interacting with -- the country's benefactors are actually the generation above her. She has very little in common with them. It was something I noticed at the last gala. She is socializing with Charles' peers, not her own. (Her generation hasn't inherited/earned enough to become philanthropists, I suspect).

For my weapons I choose divergent thinking and for my Second - I choose Harry. (next time you'll pick your second first! Bwahahahaha!)

bluhare, you're not my type, but your butt looks just fine from where I post. :)))

Stephanie, I respect your opinion, but I disagree. I think the C&C factor has quite a bit to do with the current scenario. My opinion is based on a chapter of royal history that the BRF does not want to see repeated. And the fact that Camilla played such an important role in it, and now stands to be the next Queen Consort, is just too much to dismiss in my humble opinion.

bluhare, most likely, this engagement was never on the agenda because of the pregnancy. Kate was up to doing a few engagements after the Malta "switch" and she did them well. As far as Scotland is concerned, well, I don't see it as a vacation. This is the royals' lifestyle; they have a few places to hang their hats. But the timing is just too coincidental. Had Kate done the engagement, do you think C&C would appreciate waking up to Kate's face and name dominating the London headlines after they arrived in Colombia? I think not. That sort of competition went on between Charles and Diana (intentionally or not) and I don't see Charles wanting the pattern to be repeated.

royalfan, I'm not making my point very well. Kate LIED to get out of an engagement. If that sounds too harsh, let's say she might have stretched the truth as to why she didn't want to go. I don't care if Scotland is a vacation, getaway, or they're just checking on their property portfolio. She did not tell the truth. THAT is why I am all fired up. She gave a weak excuse and got caught out when people saw her on the plane. Bad form. Very bad form, especially for someone who's supposed to be puking all day.

Here's the article. It clearly states she declined to attend citing her health.

Moxie, I wrote a lengthy response to your post and I don't know where it went. This will now be the abbreviated version, but I basically agree with what you said. I totally agree how "work" is skewed when it comes to the royal family, and that their numbers are bumped up (arrivals and departures counting separately or some such nonsense). But my point doesn't really rest on all that. The point is that they are the #3 power seat in the BRF behind the Queen and Charles, and are sadly lacking.

And as for your choice of weapon, I'm not scared. And I have royalfan as my second. Harry might be cute and honorable, but she's sneaky. :)

bluhare, I read the article and I do understand what you are saying. I just don't agree. :)

The point that I am trying to make is that there's a difference between waking up one day and calling in sick because you don't feel like going to work (or "cancelling" in royal terms) vs. not signing on to do it in the first place (or "declining"). HG may have been cited because of her circumstances, but it's *very* likely that the real reason was the timing of C&C tour.

I see it as a decision that was made for practical reasons and was not hers alone, rather than the more calculated motivation you ascribe to her.

Other members of the royal family have been cited as being out and about and not posing a threat to C&C and that is true. However, no one, but no one else in the firm receives the coverage that this star power couple does.

Aw, shucks, bluhare... I really enjoy your analysis, would have loved to read it. I've been thinking about that unfortunate corner Kate has painted herself into... once she associated herself with HG, all the HG sufferers came out of the woodwork and described what it was like. It doesn't sound like Kate suffers the same thing - it seems to me she suffers from very bad morning sickness, but then recovers in the 4th month. From everything I've read, I can't image they would take public flying transportation if she had HG, the possibility for being seen throwing up would be too high.

Regarding Kate's charity schedule - from looking over the DuchessKateTracker, I noticed she only makes one appearance on behalf of a charity annually. Going to the Natural History Museum and Action on Addiction evenings crossed those off her list and she is done for the year. She released photos of a visit for EACH (Children's Hospital), IF she is out volunteering with scouts we don't see it, and she does 100 Women in Hedge Funds every 3 years as she switches off with William and Harry.

So it doesn't surprise me that she didn't go to another ART Room opening this year - it doesn't fit her pattern. But you are right it is alarming to see that the reason stated was for pregnancy sickness, when she has been seen flying - so you have to wonder - did Kate's office say that, did the charity, or did the press make an assumption? That article also uses the term "morning sickness" and not HG. It is possible that line makes it into the story as it will generate results on key word searches. (Much like someone might claim to see Kate somewhere to generate attention on that store/product.)

Just to be clear - I'm not defending Kate at all. In 2012, she did 12 UK charity appearances, in 2013, she did 13, In 2014 she's done 7 plus 1 photo release. When you hear sponsors say "Kate does so much for charity" the reality is, she does not, they are simply being polite. When fans say it, it is wishful thinking. She might get up to her previous numbers if she accompanies William to some events in November and December as she has done in the past. This is the pace she set up for herself - it's not a very challenging one. She has added her "sailing charity work" - most likey we shall see her at more sailing events next year

Meanwhile you and I agree that they are the #3 power seat behind the Queen and Charles and do very little. Where we part is that I think - what importance is #3, when there is a #2 and #1 on the scene. I don't think they become important until they are #2. There is a Monarch and a Prince of Wales. There isn't even a title for the #3 seat. They are just starting to be involved in UK governmental business - diplomatic corp reception last year, trips to Belgium and France for war commemorations, greeting visiting dignitaries. So they are being introduced to those ceremonial roles. William could use some more practice - alluding to your bedroom life isn't quite the polite conversation you want to engage in with the President of a foreign country.

As for my second, he is a military trained fighter pilot who will charm the pants off your second and she'll be on our side in no time. And then I'm going to send him over to handle you...

bluhare, if W&K are doing what is expected of them by the royal firm (a point that shouldn't be dismissed or underestimated), they are not "sadly lacking." *We* may want to see more of them, we may even speculate about the future impact of the way the firm is conducting business at this time. But to lay all of this at W&K's feet and refer to them as being unwilling to work, or to go so far as to call Kate a liar is unfair when we are not privy to behind the scenes decisions.

A charity's statement that she "declined" to attend doesn't equal her being deceptive. I'm sure other royals decline invitations all the time and no one knows, or makes an issue of, the royal residence they are staying in at the time.

As to your points, I totally agree that the charities are being kind, and just because she has been making one charity appearance each per year doesn't mean that she has to continue it. But even if she does, and it's her choice, to blatantly use her morning sickness . . . with the inference being it's HG . . . as a reason to not attend instead of just politely declining is beyond me. And if there's one thing I don't like it's prevarication.

But as to the power seats and all that, forget the ceremonial aspect for a minute (which I get your point there), but here we have the #3 power base doing less than power bases much lower on the scale. That is what I have difficulty with.

They lied about having to prepare for the Jubilee tour in 2012, as a reason to miss the Paralympics. But were photographed vacationing in France.

Kate's team pumped out the story that she worked for Jigsaw and her family's business. After Uni she did not work for nearly 2 years. Then she got a job with Jigsaw which the owners created for her as she said she needed a flexible job. So she became an assistant accessories buyer. She worked 3 days a week, then down to 2 days a week. She was there for 9 months at Jigsaw when she was not taking holidays and having ‘compassionate leave’ for a few months after her split with William. (Yes. She got a few months off because her boyfriend dumped her.) She then went back after her compassionate leave for a few weeks then quit because she (and this is a direct quote from the article of an interview with her former Jigsaw employer) “wanted more time to herself”In reality, if you took out the compassionate leave and the holidays it was likely more like 4 months.

Then she did nothing again for a while but then when there was some backlash over this, her family and friends suddenly said “Oh she is working for party pieces!” At first we were told she designed the website - but that was proven false as the company who created it is credited on the design. Then we were told she was taking photographs for the website but the only person ever credited with taking photographs for the website and has been THE photographer for PP before, during and after Kate working there is not Kate herself. Then she was helping with marketing and such, not really substantiated either. Also when Pippa was asked what her sister did for the company she could not answer and just ah and erred. Not to mention we saw her partying, holidaying and shopping most days still and only saw her at the Company twice in nearly 4 years.

Then we are told Kate cannot work because she is being a hands-on mum. Then we learn she has a full-time live-in nanny, and a full staff to do household things. And lives with her parents.

So I think it is certainly possible they lie about what they do with their time, particularly pertaining to their work.

Stephanie is correct. Here is a link and a quote from the interview with Belle Robinson

Belle and Kate's working relationship ended last November when Kate quit her job, saying she needed "some time to herself". There were no hard feelings and Belle would never criticise Kate for not wanting a full-time job. She saw first hand the demands made on her - she jokes that her own girls would never want to be a royal girlfriend.

I see Charlotte has already responded, Anonymous, but allow me to give you a couple of tips anyway.

When throwing loaded accusations out on a blog, it helps to be correct in a number of ways.

First of all, slander is verbal defamation, libel is the word you were looking for.

Secondly, in order to be libel, not only does it have to be false (which Charlotte has just proven is not the case), it also must defame and cause damage to the person. That wouldn't meet the burden of proof for libel in any court anywhere.

Thirdly, google is your friend. Before you start slinging, check to make sure you've got an actual honking point.

You know what I got out of that article? That William makes their schedule and determines where they will be at any given time. Why would that change just because they married? We have much debate about Kate being a modern independent royal in control of her life - but perhaps that is not so.

bluhare,what happens to the workload of those lower on the scale when #1 passes? It is not as dramatic a shift as to what happens to W&K. I think they are on a different "career path", royally speaking, then Charles siblings. Still, they could improve their image by accompanying their elders to different places and appearing to take an interest in something other than their houses. That would be my solution to the PR problem they are creating for themselves.

As far as I cans see, the Artlyst article does not provide a date for the Art Room opening. It could well have happened while Kate was too ill to attend charity events. Why should this lead to accusations of lying? If the PR office were on the ball, it would clarify the timing. But perhaps they need to be asked.

Bluhare I am glad to see someone else bothered by this as well. It was not the fact that she declined an appearance that bothered me, but rather the fact that she lied about the reasoning. In my mind it kind of just proves that the Royals lie to make themselves look better. Everything Stephanie said above also backs that up. It honestly makes me wonder all the things they feed as about Will and Kate, what is really true:(

Charlotte, thank you so much for including the pictures and information about the poppy display at the Tower of London. I desperately wish I could hop across the pond to see it. The aerial pictures are amazing! It is a beautiful tribute and remembrance for the lives lost in WWI.

I hope that Wills and Kate have enjoyed their time in Scotland. Oh to see little Prince George running free around the grounds! It obviously provides the quiet family time they like. I looked the temps up and it's been quite chilly. Hope they bundled up!

Thanks for the wonderful post! I'm looking forward to seeing the Queen and family at Remembrance Sunday next week. :)

I told my mother it's all her fault she doesn't have one for a Christmas present. I was going to get her one, was on the site . . . mouse pointing over the "pay" button and this voice in my head said "£25? You're going to spend £25 on a piece of bloody pottery?" and I did not get one. I have since showed her the photos (she's not online) and told her what it's about and it brought her to tears. She lost uncles in that war, as did my dad. Anyway I told her it was her voice in my head that stopped me from buying her one! She now regrets she's trained me so well. :)

Awww Bluhare, that's kind of a sad story. I wish I could have gotten one for my grandmothers' grave (she died 10 years ago on vacation visiting my mom). She lost close family in that war also (and her 8 brothers served in the next war, WWII, in all the branches of service). Maybe they will make more, since there is such a high demand, and we can get one then. One can hope anyway.

Thank you Bluhare, I would appreciate it. I will do likewise as well. On the thought of making one, I grimace....I was horrible in pottery class in middle school, oh just the thought of it makes me cringe lol.

hi charlotte want to share these to you love the new edition of the hello magazine and love the youthful princess Charlotte of manaco and love the royal tour of charles and Camilla i dont think they over william and kate upstaging his father and stepmotherhttp://www.hellomagazine.com/magazine/1353/

LOL, Moxie. You know my mother still puts this atrocious "angel" my sister did in school on her tree even though it looks more like a bat than an angel so perhaps she would like it. Who am I kidding? No way. I'll ask Mr. bluhare to do it. :)

Not sure if you have seen but Kate is slated to make an appearance in Wales, with Will I think, for two engagements, one is a rugby match and the other is at a refinery! It is meant to be this Saturday November 8 :)

I had HG with my first son, so bad I couldn't stand up. The Doctor gave me medication because of the dramatic weight loss , over a stone in six weeks. With my second I had HG before I even knew I was pregnant (with twins). I was a complete mess, I spent all my days at work by the outside back office grid heaving and then eventually being sick. I couldn't even keep melted ice cubes own. I lost them at 9 weeks, ending up 18lb lighter with a 23 inch waste. I was told never to get pregnant again as HG increases in ferocity with each pregnancy.

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